Returning to Reima’s Career Roots
After two years of expansion into Norway, Denmark, Germany and Poland, Consid establishes its presence in Finland. Leading this journey is Reima Soikkeli, CEO of Consid Finland. During his initial days at Consid, he visited our office in Stockholm, bringing him full circle to where his career began.
– In the early stages of my career, I worked for prominent multinational corporations. My academic thesis was completed at Ericsson, and I enjoyed my time there, particularly as the telecommunications industry was booming. I liked the technology and were curious about how things functioned. Afterwards, I was selected to join Telia, then known as Teliasonera, as they introduced their global trainee program. We embarked on this journey right here in Stockholm, gazing down upon Stureplan, the very same view I see from Consid’s office today. I recall the excitement I felt back then. Now, with 15 years of experience under my belt, it’s a great pleasure to return, reflects Reima Soikkeli, CEO of Consid Finland.
Reima continued to work at Telia until 2015, primarily in the public sector services and product development of broadband services. In 2016, he transitioned into the IT consulting sector in Finland, assuming roles as a Business Architect at Solita and later as Head of Integration Services Delivery. In 2021, he joined Nortal Finland as a Delivery Director.
– I have always been captivated by entrepreneurship and the essence of business – how to get different parts of a business to work together towards a common goal. In my younger days, I explored various forms of small businesses, but it never led to anything more serious. Instead, I progressed through large multinational companies, gradually moving towards smaller enterprises. It has been a journey toward the dream of building something from the ground up. And that opportunity is now here, asserts Reima Soikkeli, CEO of Consid Finland.
The dream of entrepreneurship prompted Reima to accept the offer, as entrepreneurship also aligns with one of Consid’s core values.
“Great Individuals Attract Great Individuals”
Reima has quickly realized that Consid’s entrepreneurial mindset and approach are key factors contributing to the company’s superior performance in comparison to its competitors in Sweden. These qualities also foster a thriving environment for employees.
Since Consids foundation, the company has grown at an annual rate of around 30%, which has made Consid one of Sweden’s leading IT companies over the last 20 years. In 2022, the company crossed the EUR 200 million mark, with a turnover of around EUR 210 million in its financial statement. Today, Consid employs around 1600 people in 42 different locations and has been voted Sweden’s Best Employer for two consecutive years. As well as has received several other prestigious employer awards.
– It is clear that great individuals attract great individuals. I believe that Consid has excelled in selecting the right people. Another insight from my introductory days is Consid’s high activity level and the ‘fail fast’ attitude, Reima Soikkeli shares regarding his initial impressions.
Consid’s most valuble asset
Recognizing that its employees are its most valuable asset, Consid is committed to a thriving environment characterized by entrepreneurship, engagement and effect. This commitment is manifested through initiatives such as internal learning programs, mentoring for women in tech, and a strong emphasis on work-life balance, in line with ambitious sustainability goals.
– For instance, we invest in local offices in Sweden outside major cities, creating a more balanced lifestyle for those who prefer not to reside in cities like Stockholm. This is one aspect where I see Consid differentiating itself from its competitors, aligning with our people-first philosophy that respects both employees and customers, Reima Soikkeli observes.
Despite some variances between Finnish and Swedish corporate cultures, Reima Soikkeli views these as minor differences.
In Finland to grow Consid
With a “get things done” attitude and profound respect for people, Reima is currently focused on expanding Consid’s operations in Finland.
– I have got the keys to our office in Helsinki, alongside our first recruiter, Veera Uoti, and a signed salesperson Salla Lummi. What matters most to me, and my primary goal, is to grow our presence in Finland. Focusing on recruiting new consultants, acquiring new clients, and nurturing our team, Reima explains.
Consid’s Finnish operations are primarily centered on software development work, recognizing substantial opportunities in the Finnish market. Initially, we are seeking experienced software developers who want to be involved in starting up Consid’s operations in Finland and aim to accelerate visions into reality through sustainable digitization.
– As a senior developer, you seek engaging projects with a touch of challenge. We are currently identifying appealing assignments. It’s important to note that we are not a startup; we have a solid core team and experience from our ventures in other locations and several countries, Reima concludes.
